Always do as your wife says – the secret to a long marriage according to Sidcup residents

Home news

Sep 15, 2020

Love was in the air at a Sidcup care home when two residents marked their diamond anniversary.

Bernard, 95, and Phyllis, 96, toasted their 75th wedding anniversary at Care UK’s Smyth Lodge, on Frognal Avenue, where they both live.

Phyllis and Bernard met at a Sidmouth military hospital during the war, where Bernard worked at the time while Phyllis was training to be a nurse. They married shortly after in London on 20th August 1945; Bernard then went on to finish his chemistry degree while Phyllis continued to work to support them both. They bought their first home together in Joydons Wood in 1960, where they lived until they moved to Smyth Lodge last year. 

The inseparable couple chose Smyth Lodge as it gave them the opportunity to stay together while receiving individualised care. There, they are each other’s eyes and ears, with Phyllis regularly updating Bernard of the time, as his poor eyesight means he finds it challenging to see the clocks. 

When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Bernard said: “I always do as Phyllis says, and I do it conscientiously!”. 

To toast the special milestone, Smyth Lodge organised a socially distanced party in the garden, and invited Phyllis’ sister, who presented the happy couple with the telegram from the Queen. 

Roda Williams, home manager at Smyth Lodge, said: “Here at Smyth Lodge, we regularly celebrate big anniversaries and understand the importance of maintaining relationships and celebrating life’s milestones. We were honoured to be a part of such a special moment for Bernard and Phyllis. They are truly inseparable, and we can all learn a thing or two from their long-lasting marriage.  

“Marking such a special occasion at the home allowed many of the residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own wedding days – it was lovely to hear their stories too. Happy anniversary Bernard and Phyllis!”

Smyth Lodge has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential dementia and nursing care, as well as respite care.

To find out more about Smyth Lodge, please call customer relations manager, Maxim Davys, on 0333 3053 474 or email maxim.davys@careuk.com

For more general information about Smyth Lodge, please visit careuk.com/smyth-lodge